Scope of Position

Our client is seeking a highly driven Plant Controller to provide financial leadership and strategic insights at our Modesto manufacturing facility. This role drives financial accuracy, operational efficiency, and cost optimization, while serving as a trusted partner to plant leadership. The Plant Controller will oversee financial planning and reporting, cost control, and performance analysis to support continuous improvement and long-term business success.

Responsibilities

Insight

• Partner with operations to identify, track, and reduce key cost drivers impacting conversion costs.
• Provide actionable financial insights that drive productivity, efficiency, and cost savings initiatives.
• Lead financial analysis for capital projects and cost-saving opportunities (AFEs).
• Utilize forecast data to guide plant spending, staffing, and structural decisions.
• Evaluate plant profitability at SKU/mold levels and recommend improvements.
• Educate and coach plant leadership on financial drivers, cost tracking, and operational levers.
• Actively support cross-functional initiatives, including safety, quality, and performance improvements.

Control

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and SOX requirements.
• Support internal and external audit activities.
• Oversee inventory control to minimize variances, reduce slow-moving/obsolete items, and ensure FIFO practices.
• Manage and monitor fixed assets, including annual audits.
• Maintain accuracy of standard costs and support the annual physical inventory process.

Planning & Reporting

• Lead monthly financial close for the plant and prepare accurate reporting packages.
• Analyze variances, provide explanations, and present actionable insights to plant and executive leadership.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget, forecasts, and financial projections.
• Support the plant leadership team with day-to-day financial guidance and special projects.
• Oversee development of plant standard costing and review reasonableness of product costs.
• Act as scorekeeper for daily labor and variable spend trackers, ensuring team adoption and accuracy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business (required).
• 8+ years of progressive Accounting/Finance experience, preferably in manufacturing.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications; experience with SAP, HFM, and Business Information Warehouse preferred.
• Exceptional analytical, financial modeling, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities with the confidence to engage both plant teams and executives.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive results.